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Karner Blue Butterfly

Did You Know?

Karner blue caterpillars feed exclusively on the leaves of the wild blue lupine,a perennial wildflower dependant on periodic fires or mowing for its survival.

Karner blue populations have seriously declined due to habitat loss.

The Karner blue was put on the New York State endangered species list in 1977 and on the Federal endangered species list in 1992

What to look for:

Size:

A small butterfly - wingspan of about one inch. Three other butterflys might be mistaken for the karner blue:spring azure, silvery blue and eastern tailed blues.

Color:

Males: Upper surface of all wings is a deep violet blue fringed with white.Females: Upper surface of all wings is a dusky brownish-blue with orange spots
near the edge of the hindwings. For males and females, the underside of the wing
is pale silver with white- ringed black spots and rows of bright orange and blue
markings near the edge of the hindwings. The larval stage (caterpillar) is
pea green and covered with very fine hairs.

Where to look:

The Karner blue is found only in dry, sandy areas with open woods and clearings
that support the wild blue lupine. Pitch pines and scrub oaks are the common tree
species in this habitat. In New York State, populations are restricted to the Hudson
Valley sand belt which extends from the Albany Pine Bush north to the Glens Falls area.

While the caterpillars feed only on wild blue lupine leaves, the adults feed on the
nectar of several flowering plants.

Be Careful:
Remember to stay on official trails when walking through Karner blue habitat to avoid crushing the lupine and caterpillars. Sometimes adults may land on people, so walk slowly, stop and take a good look around, and check your shoes and pant legs for visiting Karner blues

When to look:

In mid-May or early June the adult butterflies emerge from the chrysalis.
A second generation of adult butterflies appears in July.